Richland Fire & Emergency Services Partners With Nick Of Time Foundation To Offer Free Youth Heart Screenings (Photo) - 04/15/26

Richland Fire & Emergency Services, in partnership with the Nick of Time Foundation, is hosting a free youth heart screening event on Friday, May 15, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the HAPO Center.

This community-wide initiative aims to detect potential heart conditions in youth ages 12–24 and raise awareness about Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA), a leading cause of death in young people that often occurs without warning and is not typically identified during routine physicals.

Many of the underlying heart conditions, such as structural or electrical abnormalities, go undetected and may present with no symptoms until a life-threatening event occurs. Studies suggest that as many as 1 in 250–300 youth may have a potentially serious, previously undiagnosed heart condition, highlighting the importance of early screening.

“Early detection can save lives,” said Battalion Chief, Joshua Smith, Richland Fire & Emergency Services. “By offering free screenings and education, we are helping families take proactive steps to protect their children’s health and equipping our community with life-saving knowledge.”

Participants will receive a non-invasive electrocardiogram (EKG) screening performed by trained medical professionals. These screenings can identify abnormalities in the heart’s structure or electrical system; conditions that, if detected early, can often be treated or managed before becoming life-threatening.

In addition to screenings, attendees will have the opportunity to learn hands-only CPR and how to use an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), increasing community preparedness in emergency situations.

This event is free of charge. No insurance or identification is required; however, registration is encouraged to secure a screening appointment.

The May 15 event represents a collaborative effort between local agencies, healthcare providers, schools, and community organizations to remove barriers to critical health services and ensure families across the Tri-Cities have access to preventative care.

Event Details:

1. What: Free Youth Heart Screenings (Ages 12–24)
2. When: Friday, May 15, 2026, | 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
3. Where: HAPO Center, 6600 Burden Boulevard, Pasco
4. Cost: Free (donations accepted)
5. Registration: : https://bit.ly/NoTFEKGAppt

For more information about the event or to register, visit https://nickoftimefoundation.org or follow Richland Fire & Emergency Services and Nick of Time Foundation on social media for updates.

City Of Richland Announces Upcoming Geotechnical Work At SR 240 And Aaron Drive - 04/14/26

Contractors for the City of Richland will begin geotechnical drilling work on Wednesday, April 15, as part of the SR 240/Aaron Drive Intersection Improvements Project. This early phase of work will continue through early May and will help inform final design and construction planning for future improvements at this key intersection.

Drivers traveling near the intersection of SR 240 (Bypass Highway) and Aaron Drive should expect minor traffic impacts during this time.

What to expect:

• Minor shoulder and lane closures on eastbound and westbound SR 240, Aaron Drive, and the I-182 off-ramp
• Brief, intermittent traffic delays
• Daytime work Monday through Thursday from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and Fridays from 6:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

Motorists are encouraged to plan ahead, allow extra travel time, and use caution when traveling through the work zone.

The SR 240/Aaron Drive corridor is one of the most heavily traveled areas in Richland and serves as a critical connection between Interstate 182 and central Richland. Currently, traffic congestion at the intersection, particularly during peak travel times, can result in significant delays. In addition, the intersection lacks safe and direct connections for pedestrians and cyclists traveling between the Greenbelt Trail and trail systems along the Yakima River and within Chamna Nature Preserve.

During the March 17, 2026, Richland City Council meeting, $2,422,000 of Surface Transportation Block Program (STBG) funds were accepted with a required 13.5% minimum local match. These funds are for the second phase of the design of the project from the current 30% design to bid / construction ready, 100% design.  Jacobs was awarded this second phase of the design project after they were selected from a RFQ process. This award took place at the same council meeting.

The SR 240/Aaron Drive Intersection Improvements Project is designed to address these challenges by improving traffic flow, enhancing safety, and expanding multimodal access. Planned improvements include an eastbound grade-separated bypass to reduce congestion, a roundabout to improve traffic efficiency, and new pedestrian and bicycle connections to better link existing trail systems.

For more information and to view concepts for this project, visit: richlandwa.gov/SR240andAaronDrive.

City Of Richland Invites Community Input On Housing Element Of Comprehensive Plan Update (Photo) - 04/14/26

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date:  April 14, 2026

The City of Richland is inviting residents to help shape the future of housing in the community by participating in an upcoming open house focused on the Housing Element of the City’s Comprehensive Plan update.

The Housing Element serves as a roadmap for housing decisions over the next 20 years. It evaluates current housing conditions, identifies future needs, and establishes goals to support a diverse range of housing options throughout Richland.

Community members are encouraged to attend the open house to learn more and share their perspectives. The event will include a housing needs assessment overview, interactive discussions, and breakout sessions designed to gather public input.

Event Details:
Wednesday, April 22, 2026
6:45 p.m.
Richland City Hall, 625 Swift Boulevard

Council Chambers

The event will be hosted by the Richland Planning Commission and is open to all residents interested in contributing to the City’s long-term planning efforts.

Public input gathered during this process will help guide policies and priorities that ensure Richland remains a vibrant and inclusive place to live.

For more information and to stay involved, visit the City’s Comprehensive Plan webpage at Richlandwa.gov/CompPlan

Reata Road Closure Scheduled For Roundabout Construction - 04/09/26

The City of Richland, in coordination with the Badger Mountain South Developer, is providing an update on the ongoing and Gage Boulevard and Reata Road Roundabout Project, with a temporary road closure scheduled to support the next phase of construction.

Beginning Monday, April 13, 2026, Reata Road will be closed in both directions between Southgate Way and Badger View Road. This closure is necessary as the contractor advances construction activities for the new roundabout.

A signed detour will be in place directing traffic from Sagebrush Road to Bermuda Road in both directions. Local access will be maintained for the duration of the closure for residents on the south side of Reata Road, as well as access to Southgate Way.

The closure is anticipated to remain in place for approximately two months, depending on construction progress and weather conditions.

Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead, use alternate routes, and exercise caution when traveling near active construction zones. Delays are expected.

The Reata Road and Gage Boulevard Roundabout Project is part of ongoing efforts to improve traffic flow, enhance safety, and support future growth in the area.

For project updates and additional information, visit the City’s project page at richlandwa.gov/GageReataRoundabout.

Richland Police Department To Host Community Day On May 9 (Photo) - 04/07/26

The Richland Police Department (RPD) invites community members to attend RPD Community Day on Saturday, May 9, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Richland Police Department.

This free, family-friendly event offers a unique opportunity for residents to connect with local law enforcement, public safety partners, and community organizations in a fun and welcoming

environment.

Attendees will be able to explore a variety of public safety equipment and demonstrations, including police drones, SWAT and bomb squad vehicles, patrol units, and traffic enforcement

tools. Richland Fire and Emergency Services will also be on site with fire trucks and ambulances available for viewing.

In addition to equipment displays, families can enjoy interactive activities such as traffic safety go-karts and hands-on demonstrations designed to engage and educate visitors of all ages.

Community Day also provides an opportunity to meet RPD officers and staff, ask questions, and learn more about the programs and partnerships that support public safety in Richland.

Free barbecue will be provided by Swampy’s BBQ, while supplies last.

“This event is a great opportunity for us to connect with the community we serve in a relaxed, family-friendly setting,” said Chief Marty Pilcher. “We look forward to meeting

community members, sharing what we do, and continuing to build strong relationships across Richland.”

RPD Community Day is open to the Richland public, and all are encouraged to attend.

For more information, please contact 509-942-7608 or visit our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/RichlandPolice.

Richland Public Library To Close In Observance Of Easter Sunday (Photo) - 04/03/26

The Richland Public Library will be closed on Sunday in observance of the Easter holiday. Regular library hours will resume on Monday, April 6th, 2026.

Patrons are encouraged to plan their visits accordingly and take advantage of the library’s digital resources, which remain available online 24/7 at https://www.myrichlandlibrary.org/digital-resources/entertainment.

We appreciate the community’s understanding.

For more information about library hours and services, please visit the Richland Public Library website at https://www.myrichlandlibrary.org/ or contact us directly.

Friends Of The Richland Public Library Host Annual Book Sale (Photo) - 04/02/26

The Friends of the Richland Public Library invite the community to their annual book sale, offering thousands of books across a wide variety of subjects, genres, and authors.

The multi-day event will take place April 22–25, 2026, and provides an opportunity for residents to discover great reads at affordable prices while supporting local library programs.

Event Details:
Where: Richland Public Library, 955 Northgate Drive, Richland, WA 99354

When:

• Wednesday, April 22 – Friends Members Preview Night
  5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
  (Memberships available at the door for $10)
• Thursday, April 23 – Open to the Public
  10:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
• Friday, April 24 – Open to the Public
  10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Saturday, April 25 – $5 Bag Sale all day - Open to the Public
  10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Book Pricing:

• $1.00 – Hardbacks and trade paperbacks
• $0.50 – Children’s books
• $0.25 – Paperbacks
• Select items individually priced

On Saturday, shoppers can take advantage of the popular $5 Bag Sale. Just fill a grocery-sized bag with books for just $5. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own bags, and there is no limit to the number of bags purchased.

Proceeds from the book sale directly support programs and services at the Richland Public Library, helping to enhance resources, events, and opportunities for the community.

For more information, visit the Friends of the Richland Public Library on Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/friendsofrichlandpubliclibrary

Richland Police Department Temporarily Suspending ALPR Systems Pending Compliance With New State Law - 04/01/26

The Richland Police Department is announcing that it will temporarily suspend use of its automated license plate reader (ALPR) systems, including the department’s Flock Safety camera network and Axon in-car ALPR systems, following passage of the Washington Senate Bill 6002.

The legislation establishes new statewide privacy protections and operational requirements governing the use of automated license plate reader technology by law enforcement agencies. You can read more about the bill here.

To ensure full compliance with the new law, the Richland Police Department will deactivate its ALPR systems while department staff review the legislation, update internal policies, and complete the registration and certification requirements, as outlined in the bill.

“Automated license plate reader technology has proven to be a valuable investigative tool for law enforcement,” said Chief Martin Pilcher. “These systems help officers locate stolen vehicles, identify vehicles associated with serious crimes, and assist in missing person investigations. At the same time, we recognize the importance of ensuring these tools are used responsibly and in accordance with state law.”

The department supports the intent of the legislation to balance public safety with individual privacy protection. The temporary suspension will allow the department to ensure its systems, policies, and training fully align with the new requirements before returning the technology to service.

The Richland Police Department will continue to work with city leadership, legal counsel, and state partners during the implementation process and will provide updates to the public when the systems are reactivated. 

More information can be found at richlandwa.gov/ALPR.

Badger Mountain Community Park Off Leash Dog Area To Temporarily Close For Maintenance On March 31st (Photo) - 03/30/26

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Date: March 30th, 2026

Media Contact: Hollie Alexander, Communications & Marketing Manager, halexander@richlandwa.gov, 509-942-7386

Badger Mountain Community Park Off Leash Dog Area to Temporarily Close for Maintenance on March 31

The City of Richland announces that the Badger Mountain Dog Park will be temporarily closed for routine maintenance on Tuesday, March 31st, 2026, from opening until 12:00 p.m. (noon).

This temporary closure is necessary to allow maintenance crews to perform essential upkeep and ensure the park remains a safe, clean, and enjoyable space for all visitors and their pets.

The park is expected to reopen at noon on March 31st. Visitors are encouraged to plan accordingly and consider alternative locations during the closure period.

We appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation as we work to maintain the quality of our community parks.

Bunny Brunch Returns To Richland (Photo) - 03/25/26

Families across the Tri-Cities are invited to celebrate the arrival of spring at the annual Bunny Brunch, hosted by Richland Parks and Recreation. The festive, family-friendly event will take place on Saturday, March 28, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Richland Community Center.

Bunny Brunch offers a cozy and cheerful atmosphere for guests of all ages, featuring a delicious breakfast of warm pancakes and fresh coffee. Attendees are encouraged to pre-register for breakfast, with early registration available until Friday, March 27th at $5 per person. Day-of registration will be available for $7.

Beyond the brunch, the event will include a variety of free, engaging activities designed to bring the community together. Guests can enjoy yard games, crafts, Bunny Bingo, live music, vendor booths, and colorful face painting. Children and families can meet the Spring Bunny and participate in festive activities like egg hunts and interactive play zones.

The Bunny Brunch is part of Richland’s lineup of signature community events, designed to foster connection and provide fun, accessible experiences for residents and visitors alike. More information can be found at www.richlandparksandrec.com/BunnyBrunch.

City Of Richland Facilities To Open Late On March 19 - 03/18/26

The City of Richland would like to inform residents that all City facilities will open at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, March 19, 2026, to accommodate the City’s annual Employee Appreciation and Recognition Breakfast.

This annual event brings employees together to celebrate outstanding service, recognize achievements, and strengthen connections across departments in support of delivering exceptional service to the Richland community.

Public safety services, including police, fire, and 911 emergency response, will remain fully operational during this time. Regular trash collection services will operate on their normal schedule and will not be affected.

City facilities will resume normal operations following the delayed opening at 10:00 a.m.

The City appreciates the community’s understanding as we take time to recognize the dedicated employees who serve Richland every day.

For more information, please visit richlandwa.gov or contact the City of Richland at 509-942-7390.